Terry'S Broccoli Casserole
A creamy broccoli casserole with sharp cheddar, topped with crunchy Ritz cracker crumbs, perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook broccoli in boiling water for 5 minutes, then drain well.
- In a mixing bowl, combine beaten eggs, chopped onion, cream of celery soup, melted butter, and grated cheddar cheese.
- Add the cooked broccoli to the mixture and stir until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a buttered casserole dish.
- Top with Ritz cracker crumbs and dot with small pieces of butter.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the mixture. If you don't have cream of celery soup, cream of mushroom or chicken soup can work as substitutes. To enhance the flavor, sauté the onion in a bit of the melted butter before mixing it in, which will add depth to the dish. This casserole is also versatile; try adding cooked chicken or other vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
This broccoli casserole can be served as a delightful side dish alongside roasted meats or grilled chicken. It pairs beautifully with Plain Ole' Potato Salad for a comforting meal. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added color and flavor. It's also a great dish to bring to potlucks or family gatherings, as it is always a crowd-pleaser.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, cover with foil to prevent drying out and heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, but be cautious not to overheat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Terry'S Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 824 calories, with 12g protein, 97g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (31% of the Daily Value) and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 533mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli! Simply chop it into small florets and blanch them in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes before draining and adding to the mixture. Fresh broccoli will provide a firmer texture and a vibrant color to the casserole.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make the casserole gluten-free, use gluten-free Ritz crackers or crush gluten-free breadcrumbs to use as a topping. Additionally, ensure that your cream of celery soup is labeled gluten-free or make a homemade version using gluten-free flour.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe up until baking, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).